Kayonza, October 26, 2024 – On Saturday, October 26, 2024, BK Foundation, in partnership with the Rwanda Environment and Development Organization (REDO), joined residents of Gahini Sector in Kayonza District for a community-led tree-planting event. The activity was part of a national initiative to promote environmental conservation and resilience against climate change through tree planting. During this event, approximately 5,000 tree seedlings were planted, contributing to the government’s larger goal of planting 65 million trees across the country.

The event, held during the national Umuganda (Community Service Day), was attended by several prominent figures, including members of parliament, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, the Mayor of Kayonza District, students from FAWE School, and staff from BK Group in Rwamagana and Kayonza.

John Bosco Nyemazi, Mayor of Kayonza District, highlighted that deforestation in the district, particularly in areas like Rubanga, had contributed to frequent droughts. He stressed the importance of the initiative in restoring the district's environment, saying:

"Many areas in Gahini, such as Rubanga, have been heavily deforested. Planting trees will help reverse this trend, prevent soil erosion, and bring back the much-needed rain. This project is a critical step toward addressing these environmental challenges."

Residents expressed their support for the initiative and affirmed their commitment to ensuring its success. Vianney Rutebuka, a resident of Gahini, stated:

"Trees are essential for stabilizing the environment, contributing to rainfall, and preventing erosion. We recognize the long-term value of this initiative and will work diligently to ensure the trees are well-maintained."

Ingrid Karangwayire, Executive Secretary of BK Foundation, stated:

"This initiative goes beyond planting trees—it’s about securing the future of our planet and building climate resilience within our communities. By combining tree planting with financial literacy, we are not only addressing climate change but also promoting sustainable development in Kayonza. Empowering communities to manage and benefit from their natural resources strengthens both climate and economic resilience. We are starting here in Kayonza with a target of 20,000 trees. By the end of this year, we aim to plant a total of 50,000 trees across the country.”

The initiative, implemented in collaboration with REDO, includes planting both agroforestry species and fruit trees, helping to restore the environment and enhance local livelihoods.

As BK Foundation and its partners continue to expand their environmental initiatives, they aim to make a lasting impact on both the environment and local communities. This tree-planting project is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable development and ensure a greener future for Rwanda.